Practical exercises, in the form of role-play and discussion groups, provide hands-on experience.
"As much theory as necessary and as much practice as possible" is the principle of this course.
Please note that you must be a postdoc for a minimum of six months at the time of attending the course.

Before becoming an independent scientist, you primarily had to focus just on science. As a group leader you will need to be able to deal with a much broader range of challenges, without any preparation. This course introduces you to key – yet simple – leadership concepts. It also gives you the chance to identify the different roles that you have to take, see where your strengths and resources lie, and identify strategies for coping with roles in which you are uncomfortable.
Emotional Intelligence is the main predictor of success in positions of leadership. You will learn to use some models and instruments that will help you to understand yourself and others better, to manage yourself better and communicate effectively with them. In particular, you will practice tools that help you to give feedback and criticism, and delegate tasks effectively.
Conflicts are a part of everyday lab life. We will show you how you can recognize and manage them, before they develop into an unmanageable crisis, and deal with any conflicts you may already have.
Since most postdocs are responsible for their own projects and several lead teams or sub-groups, this course will help to facilitate both their current work and future endeavours, whether as a group leader or working outside of the laboratory.